Toronto

About Toronto

The most multicultural city on the planet, and the heart of Canada’s business and cultural scene.

Toronto is Canada’s largest city, a vibrant metropolis bustling with more than 5.5 million people. This culturally diverse and fascinating city is made up of many unique neighbourhoods. No matter where you are, there is something for everyone – from business, to arts, fashion, culture, film, sports and music. If you like exploring the outdoors you’re also in luck. Take a sail boat to the Toronto Islands, enjoy a picnic in High Park, visit the spectacular Niagara Falls, or discover the city’s hidden gems along one of the many walking or bike trails.

ILSC-Toronto

ILSC-Toronto's two campuses are centrally located downtown, close to major transit stations, shopping, parks, restaurants and more!

City Life

Arrival

If you are coming in on an international flight, you will arrive at the Toronto Pearson International Airport, which is located approximately 50 minutes from the school by public transit. There are various taxi and bus services that depart regularly from the international terminal for downtown. For more information visit: http://www.torontopearson.com/.

If you request airport pickup, your homestay family or an ILSC staff will meet you at the airport and bring you to your accommodation.

Medical Insurance

It is mandatory in Canada for you to provide proof of medical insurance when you arrive. ILSC can arrange your medical insurance through Guard Me International Insurance. Visit https://www.guard.me/ for more information.

Health and Safety

Toronto is generally a very safe place to live and study, but it is important to look after yourself and always be aware of your surroundings. Take care of your belongings, and avoid carrying large amounts of cash with you. Always use your common sense, whether at school, at home or outdoors.

Tipping and Taxes

In Canada tipping is generally expected in restaurants, bars, hotels and other service industries such as hairdressers and taxis. It is customary to tip approximately 15% on the total bill in restaurants. Keep in mind that many restaurants and bars will automatically charge 15% or more for larger groups, so make sure you check the bill before calculating your tip. Taxes are generally not included in the advertised price of goods in Ontario. Most products and services are subject to a 13% Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) which will be charged when you pay.

Driving Age

Most car rental companies in Ontario require drivers to be 21 years of age, however many companies will charge additional fees for drivers below the age of 25.

Typical Living Costs

While in Toronto you should make sure you have sufficient funds to cover your living expenses while you're studying. In addition to tuition fees, airfares and medical insurance, living costs may include but are not limited to: rent, food, groceries, transport, utilities, entertainment and clothing.

Average cost of a meal: $6 to $15

Average cost of a drink: $3 to $5

Average cost of groceries: $30 to $90 per week

Cover charge at a club: $5 to $15

Movie ticket: $10 to $15

Public transportation: $10 to $50 per week

Phone and Internet: $20 to $50 per week

Accommodation costs: $150 to $400 per week

This is a guide ONLY. Prices are subject to change. All prices in CAD

Climate

Toronto’s climate is hot and humid in the summer, and relatively cold in the winter. The summer months are June to September, where temperatures range from 20°C to 35°C, perfect conditions to get outdoors! The winter months are December through to February, and temperatures can range from -22°C to 15°C with occasional snow, so make sure you have a warm coat and gloves.

Public Transportation

Toronto’s public transport system has a great network of subway, bus and streetcar services operating throughout downtown and metropolitan areas. For more information on the services available, timetables, ticket costs and more visit: http://www.ttc.ca/.

Legal Drinking Age

The legal age to buy and drink alcohol in Ontario, Canada is 19 years.

After-school Activities

Connect with friends at ILSC and explore Toronto with daily after-school activities. Activities vary depending on the season and can include things like city walking tours, yoga, soccer, movie nights, chess club, group dinners and more! Afternoon activities typically have minimal fees and an ILSC teacher or Activities Coordinator will be your guide.

Before travelling to the USA

If you plan to enter the USA while you are studying in Canada, you need a separate USA Visa. For most students this must be organized before you come to Canada. Students from Western European Countries & Japan do not have to arrange for a USA Visa in advance, as you can get one from USA Immigration at the border. Also, all passports must be valid for a minimum of 6 months and be machine readable.

Weekend Adventures

Get out of town with ILSC and discover some of Canada's amazing sights! Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie or a keen sightseer, there is something for everyone. Visit world famous Niagara Falls, go camping, hiking or even white water rafting. The USA is just hours away so you can even spend the weekend exploring amazing cities like New York City and Chicago.

Make a difference in the world

One of the best ways to live like a local and to connect with Torontonians is to volunteer for a cause you care about in the local community. The Activities Department can connect you to fun and interesting volunteer opportunities that will provide you with experience and references to add to your resumé, and it’s a great way to make new friends. Not to mention, volunteering is also a great way to “be the change you want to see in the world.”

Check out our Activities Calendars to see What's Happening!

Accommodation

Live with a Family

Are you looking for a home away from home? Be welcomed into one of ILSC’s Homestay families, and experience a supportive living environment. It’s an excellent opportunity to practice your English conversation skills and experience Canadian culture and family life.

ILSC’s Toronto Homestays:

Are located between 40-60 minutes travelling distance from the school

Provide you with a clean, comfortable, private room, equipped with a desk, bed, dresser, closet and good lighting

Can provide healthy meals for students choosing Full-board or Half-board homestay options, or a kitchen for preparing your own meals for Roomstay students.

Choose from 3 Homestay options

Full-board

Half-board

Roomstay

Breakfast

Lunch

Dinner

Snacks

Breakfast

Dinner

Evening Snacks

Access to the kitchen to prepare your own meals

Live Independently

Are you feeling adventurous? Do you want to experience Toronto on your own, or with other students or travelers? ILSC can connect you with a wide selection of accommodation options that meet a range of budgets and tastes, including:

Hostels

Hotels

Furnished apartments

And more!

Check out our Accommodations brochure for full details on our independent living rental accommodations.